A full service law firm with focused practice groups in family law, adoption, probate,
traffic/criminal defense and civil litigation.
Criminal Trials
Criminal Trial Defense Attorneys Serving Akron and Northeast Ohio
Serving Akron, Canton, Summit County, Portage and Medina, Ohio.
When you're facing a criminal trial, it often feels like the system is already against you. You may have been accused unfairly, your story hasn’t been heard, or your future is being weighed without the full truth on the table. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we don’t take that lightly. We’re here to help you fight back, prepare with purpose, and go into court with a strategy designed to protect your freedom.
Criminal trials are complex, intimidating, and high-stakes. But with the right team, the courtroom becomes a place where your voice is heard, your rights are defended, and your side of the story is brought forward clearly and powerfully.
Understanding the Criminal Trial Process in Ohio
A criminal trial begins when charges are formally filed against a person and continues through a series of court proceedings designed to determine guilt or innocence. If your case isn’t resolved through a dismissal, diversion, or plea agreement, it proceeds to trial either before a judge (bench trial) or a jury.
The trial process typically includes jury selection, opening statements, witness testimony and cross-examination, presentation of evidence, closing arguments, jury deliberation, and a final verdict. Throughout the process, the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. You have the right to remain silent, present your own evidence, and confront any witnesses brought against you.
In Ohio, the trial rules and procedures vary slightly depending on whether the charges are misdemeanors or felonies. Felony trials are held in the Court of Common Pleas and may take several months to reach a final verdict. Misdemeanor trials are typically handled in municipal or county courts but still carry serious consequences. Our job is to make sure your rights are protected at every stage, from pretrial to verdict.
How We Can
Help at Your First Consultation
When you’re facing trial, the sooner we’re involved, the stronger your defense can be. At your first consultation, we will:
- We will review your charges and explain exactly what they mean under Ohio law
- We will explain the potential penalties and how they could impact your future
- We will outline the court process and help you understand what to expect at each stage
- We will go over the facts of the case and hear your side of the story
- We will explain how our representation works and discuss our fee structure
- And we assure you everything you share with us is 100 percent confidential
We are here to help you feel heard, supported, and ready for what’s ahead.
Traffic and Criminal
Experienced Lawyers in Family Law, Divorce, Adoption, Estate Planning, Probate, Criminal, Traffic, Bankruptcy, Business, Personal Injury, Civil and Education Law.
What We Can Do for You
We approach trial defense with intense preparation, strategic thinking, and strong courtroom advocacy. From the moment we take your case through the final verdict, we focus on building a complete defense that gives you the best chance at success in front of a judge or jury.
Review Discovery, Evidence, and Police Reports
We examine police reports, body cam footage, forensics, and all discovery materials provided by the prosecution. This detailed review helps identify inconsistencies, errors, or misconduct that could lead to suppression, dismissal, or acquittal.
File Motions to Exclude Evidence or Dismiss Charges
We file motions challenging unlawful searches, unreliable witness statements, and constitutional violations. These motions can suppress evidence, reduce charges, or result in dismissal before the case proceeds to trial or sentencing.
Prepare You for Testimony and Courtroom Procedures
We help you prepare to testify by reviewing expected questions, practicing responses, and explaining courtroom behavior. We ensure you feel confident, understand your rights, and are fully prepared for every stage of the courtroom process.
Represent You in Pretrial Hearings and Trial
We attend all hearings and trial dates, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and present your defense to the judge or jury. We handle legal arguments, witness cross-examination, and trial strategy with professionalism and focus.
Handle Post-Trial Relief and Appeal Planning
If the trial ends in conviction, we preserve legal issues for appeal, file post-verdict motions, and explain your next steps. We prepare the foundation needed to request a new trial, reduced sentence, or full appellate review.
When to Call a Criminal Trial Attorney
If you are facing criminal charges and trial is a possibility, early legal representation is essential. Preparing for trial takes time, strategy, and a deep understanding of the facts. The sooner we begin, the stronger and more focused your defense can be. Waiting too long can limit options and weaken your case.
Our attorneys are ready to examine the details, craft a clear defense, and stand with you through every stage of the trial process.
Tell Us About You And Your Situation
Contact Us
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do all criminal cases go to trial?
No. Many cases are resolved through dismissal or negotiation, but we prepare as if every case could go to trial.
What is a bench trial?
A bench trial is decided by a judge instead of a jury. We help you decide which is better based on your case.
Will I have to testify?
You are never required to testify. We discuss this option together and prepare you if it becomes part of the strategy.
How long does a criminal trial take?
Some last a day or two, others weeks. It depends on the charges, evidence, and court calendar.
Can I appeal if I lose?
Yes. If there are legal errors in the process, you may have the right to appeal. We preserve that option throughout trial.
